Ingredients:

  • 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (115g) shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) sour cream
  • 6 slices (60g) bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled
  • 50g fresh jalapeños, finely diced
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp (3g) onion powder
  • 1/2 cup (55g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp (8g) chopped fresh chives
  • 2 tbsp (12g) reserved crumbled bacon
  • 1 tbsp (15g) cream cheese

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and sour cream together until the mixture is velvety and free of lumps.
  2. Fold in the shredded cheddar, diced jalapeños, crumbled bacon, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly distributed.
  3. Lay a large piece of plastic wrap on the counter, scoop the cheese mixture onto the center, and gather the edges to form a tight ball.
  4. Gently roll the ball between your palms, applying light pressure to the ends to create a football shape.
  5. Twist the ends of the plastic wrap tightly to seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
  6. Mix the remaining shredded cheddar, chopped chives, and reserved bacon in a small bowl.
  7. Unwrap the chilled cheese ball, place it on a serving platter, and press the coating mixture firmly onto the outside.
  8. Use thin strips of cream cheese to create the laces across the center of the football.